After Lionel Messi, FC Barcelona Could Lose Another Key Star in Outrageous Swap Deal

Barcelona is in a rebuilding phase currently, still recovering from the departure of Lionel Messi. Although his career at PSG has not been up to the mark, the void he left in Barca is huge. Even though Barcelona has the likes of Pedri, Ansu Fati, and the newly capped Spanish player Gavi to count upon, nothing seems to be working.

However, Frenkie de Jong is one of the most important players in the current squad, but the club is now ready to sell the midfielder off. In fact, they are even targeting a winger from Manchester City to replace him.

Barcelona and Manchester City’s imminent deal

The reported player-swap deal is being planned by both clubs to enhance their performances. De Jong arrived at Barca from Ajax, hoping to be the player to take them to the next level, but things have not worked out well. Ever since his arrival, the central midfielder has failed to stamp his authority on the soccer pitch and guide the team to glory. Thus, Xavi wants him to be sold in exchange for Manchester star, Raheem Sterling.

After many years of success, Sterling’s time at Manchester City seems to have come to an end. He won two Premier League titles, three Carabao Cups, an FA Cup, and the FA Community shield. His legendary performances in the club earned him plaudits from all over the world. However, reports suggest he is no more Pep’s top choice, especially after the arrival of stars like Jack Grealish.

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Who gets the better player?

If the signing would go through, both clubs would be happy to get these players. Not to forget, Barca has been involved in major player-swap transfers before with Zlatan Ibrahimovic arriving for Samuel Eto. However, Inter Milan was the clear winner with Eto winning the Champions League under Jose Mourinho while Pep had a fallout with Zlatan.

In Pedri and Gavi, they have two midfielders to control the team for years to come. Sterling would provide that directness and impetus while being a constant threat to opposition defenders with his off-the-ball movement. Xavi would welcome his invaluable experience and would hope to get the player on board.

On the other hand, Pep has been a fan of De Jong for a long time. He is the perfect player for Pep, who passes the ball and controls the tempo of the game. Signing him would help them to replace either Fernandinho or Gundogan, who are approaching their twilight years.

Messi’s departure has affected the club majorly. Hence, the deal between these two clubs would be important for both the teams to compete in their respective leagues. However, anything is possible in football; only time will tell the fate of this deal.

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